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cash register history

Invented in 1880, Jack Ritty's Incorruptible Cashier forever changed the way retail establishments would conduct everyday business. The first machines were sold not only for their functional ability, but also on their beauty - a fixture which every store owner would be proud to display in his establishment.  The first cash registers were housed in elegant cabinets of polished wood.  In 1888 ornate cases of brass and cast iron were produced.  These fancy cases on cash registers ceased in 1915 due to demand for brass during World War I.  Less expensive sheet metal versions were then produced and the era of the brass cash register ended after only 27 years.

 Even though brass cash registers have not been manufactured since 1915, they were refurbished and sold as used registers for the next three decades.  In some cases, they can even be found in use today.  The quality of the mechanisms in these machines, as well as the timeless beauty of their ornate cases, make it easy to understand why these one-time common business machines have become such a sought-after and coveted antique.

 

Antiques are collected for many different reasons: beauty, uniqueness, investment, or simply for usefulness.  The multitude of styles and sizes of brass cash registers affords the collector each of these purposes.  A fancy brass cash register will provide a functional addition to the decor of any business.  It will grace the appearance of any room in a home and provides a great site to store jewelry or loose change.  As an investment, antique cash registers only appreciate in value.

 

FINISHES

 

Metal cabinets are furnished in the following finishes:

(A)    Bronze, oxidized and relieved.

(B)     Nickel plated.

(C)     Bronze, natural color.

(D)    Oxidized copper and relieved.

(En) Black enamel, ornamented.

All metal cabinets are made of either bronze or brass, with the exceptions of Registers Nos. 10, 20 Class 100 and Class 200.

 

 

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Last modified: 5/27/08